Amon Tobin - Supermodified (2000) (mp3, 128 kbps)

This is a devastating piece of electronica from a time when the genre was starting to loose some of it's popularity. Squarepusher and The Prodigy had broken through in 1997 and every major artist from U2 to Madonna was hiring a DJ to give their record that modern sound.

Tobin was different. He came from Canada, not England, and he exploited his family's Brazilian roots. He was also shameless about his deep held love of jazz and wanted to bring that sensibility to his electronic music. As a result, the soundscape is very organic. His drum patterns, in particular, give a decent approximation of the real thing, but the rest of the music brings a very heavy vibe that, especially on this record, suggests living machines.

To my ears, this record was the pinnacle. Since Supermodified's release, Tobin has engaged in more experimental pursuits, including music for a video game and a record comprised of found noise. The result is always innovative and forceful. this is NOT a tenative artist. Check it all out if you like this selection, but for me, this one is hard to top.

"Get Your Snack On" – 4:22
"Four Ton Mantis" – 4:45
"Slowly" – 5:37
"Marine Machines" – 5:45
"Golfer vrs Boxer" – 6:17
"Deo" – 6:44
"Precursor" featuring Quadraceptor – 4:39
"Saboteur" – 5:18
"Chocolate Lovely" – 6:03
"Rhino Jockey" – 7:28
"Keepin' It Steel (The Anvil Track)" – 4:29
"Natureland" – 5:48

All music composed, arranged, performed and produced by Amon Tobin.